Accessible Arts

Autism community finds reprieve in sensory-friendly cultural outlets

By Edmond Ortiz

Photo By Sara Luna Ellis

When the actors in Charlotte’s Web take the stage on May 15, there will still be plenty of empty seats in the audience. The house lights will remain on and some of their well-rehearsed lines will be delivered differently than they were the day before.

That’s because the 2 p.m. show on May 15 is part of The Magik Theatre’s sensory-friendly program. Children and adults living with autism often have one or more senses that are under- or over-reactive to stimulation, which means the theater’s typically bright lights, crowds and loud noises can be bothersome and even trigger certain behaviors, like rocking or spinning. “We just wanted to provide an even safer place for everyone,” says Shelley Weber, Magik’s education and outreach director.

The children’s theater is one of several local arts and cultural institutions that have added sensory-friendly options. The Magik Theatre first introduced such performances in 2015 and now works to incorporate them into every production’s schedule. Along with leaving the house lights on, sound levels are decreased and audience members are free to talk. A designated quiet area is set up in the foyer, so families can walk out if needed and still watch the play via a television monitor. Even the script is adjusted to make certain things in the plot occur less suddenly than they would otherwise. Families are also allowed to bring in their own snacks—helpful if a child has special dietary requirements.

Weber started researching the feasibility of such shows after moving back to San Antonio from Washington, D.C., where sensory-friendly programs had become common thanks to efforts by the Kennedy Center. She used the Kennedy Center as an example for what changes were needed to make a show more accessible to those with autism.

Similar programs have also become common at movie theaters. AMC was one of the first to begin accommodating for sensory issues, partnering with the Autism Society in 2007 to offer “Sensory Friendly Films” during which noise levels are lower, theaters are less crowded and families are able to bring snacks. Through a partnership with Eva Longoria’s nonprofit, Eva’s Heroes, Santikos Theaters also offer sensory-friendly screenings.

The accommodations extend beyond theaters, too. At The DoSeum, periodic sensory-friendly hours allow for kids with autism to enjoy the facility without some of the crowds and special effects that may inhibit their ability to engage with the exhibits on a typical day. Sunglasses and earplugs are provided for children who are sensitive to light or sound. Additional signs are also added to alert parents and children of high and low sensory areas. Volume is reduced, flashing lights are dimmed and materials that could overwhelm an autistic visitor are removed across all exhibits. Orlando Graves Bolaños, DoSeum’s arts education manager explains, “It’s been about how we can make this space as equitable and accessible to everyone as possible.”

Four Sensory-Friendly Programs

Santiko’s Theatres, May 3 and 17

Eva’s Heroes sponsors free admission for those with special needs during sensory-friendly family films each first and third Tuesday. santikos.com

AMC Rivercenter, May 10, 14, 24, 28

Select showings at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays and at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays are sensory-friendly. amctheatres.com

The Magik Theatre, May 11 and 15

Sensory-friendly shows of Charlotte’s Web are scheduled at 11:30 a.m. on May 11 and 2 p.m. on May 15. magiktheatre.org

Toddler Art Play, May 13

This McNay Art Museum program provides sensory-based activities and additional accommodations can be made upon request. mcnayart.org